Where Is Kennesaw State University Located
Kennesaw State University is in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains in the city of Kennesaw, Georgia, United States. Its main campus sits at 1000 Chastain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30144, about 20 to 30 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta depending on traffic. The university also operates a campus in nearby Marietta, but the primary location is in Kennesaw. For drivers, the address is a well-marked exit off Interstate 75 (I-75) at State Route 20, with visitor parking available near the Welcome Center and main academic buildings.
Coordinates and Exact Address
GPS coordinates for the Kennesaw State University main campus are approximately 34.0356° N, 84.6309° W. The official mailing address is 1000 Chastain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30144. This places the campus in Cobb County, within walking distance of the Kennesaw downtown area, and roughly 35 minutes by car from Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The campus is bounded by Chastain Road to the south, Kennesaw Avenue to the east, and includes adjacent athletic fields and housing areas to the north and west.
Campus Map and Key Landmarks
The main campus is organized around a central pedestrian mall linking academic halls, the University Union, and the Richard B. Russell Library. Key landmarks include the KSU Welcome Center at the main entrance, the Visual Arts Building near the northwest corner, and athletic facilities such as Fifth Third Bank Stadium to the southwest. On-campus signage and the interactive campus map help visitors locate classrooms, parking, and support services in real time.
Nearby Cities and Regions
Kennesaw State’s location situates it within a dense region of suburban Atlanta. It is roughly 5 miles from downtown Marietta, 10 miles from downtown Acworth, 15 miles from downtown Canton, and 20 miles from downtown Atlanta. Cobb County, where the university resides, is one of the most populous counties in Georgia and serves as a major employment, retail, and residential hub. The proximity to major employers, the Cumberland district, and tourist destinations such as the Tellus Science Museum makes the area a practical base for students and staff.
Transportation and Access
By Car
From Atlanta, take I-75 north and exit at State Route 20 toward Kennesaw. Follow signs for Chastain Road and the university. From Marietta, travel east on State Route 120, then connect to Chastain Road. On campus, parking decks, surface lots, and metered spaces serve academic and visitor needs; permits and pay-by-phone options are available through the university’s parking system.
Public Transit and Rideshare
CobbLinc and GRTA Xpress provide regional bus service with stops near the campus. Limited MARTA rail access requires connecting buses from the nearest rail stations. Rideshare pickup and drop-off zones are located at the main entrance and the University Union. Cyclists can use campus bike racks and the Silver Comet Trail corridor, which runs nearby.
Neighborhoods and Housing Options
The area surrounding Kennesaw State includes a mix of residential neighborhoods, student-oriented rentals, and family-friendly communities. Popular neighborhoods close to campus include Kennesaw Heights, parts of East Cobb, and the city of Acworth. On-campus residence halls and university-managed apartments serve first-year and transfer students, while off-campus listings offer apartments and townhomes within a short drive. Consider factors such as commute time, access to amenities, and parking convenience when choosing housing.
Academic and Administrative Locations
Academic buildings are concentrated near the main entrance and along the central mall. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences, the College of Science and Mathematics, and the College of Business are housed in buildings clustered around this area. The Mike Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication is located near the southern edge of campus. Administrative offices, including admissions and registrar, are typically found in the University Center and nearby wings, all well signposted for visitors.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Address | 1000 Chastain Road, Kennesaw, GA 30144 | University official site |
| GPS Coordinates | 34.0356° N, 84.6309° W | GIS / campus mapping |
| Distance to Downtown Atlanta | Approximately 20–30 minutes by car (varies by traffic) | Travel time estimates |
| Nearest Major Airport | Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, approx. 35 minutes | Travel time estimates |
| Adjacent Interstates | Interstate 75 (I-75), State Route 20 | Road network data |
| On-Campus Landmarks | Welcome Center, Richard B. Russell Library, Fifth Third Bank Stadium | Campus guide |
Practical Tips for Visitors
Check the university’s event calendar before arrival, as athletics and ceremonies can affect parking and access. Use the official campus map app for real-time navigation and to find meeting points, parking, and building entrances. Arrive early during peak hours, as commuter traffic on State Route 20 can be heavy. If using public transit, confirm schedule changes with CobbLinc or GRTA Xpress ahead of time. For accessibility needs, contact the university office in advance for guidance on routes and accommodations.
Summary
Kennesaw State University is located at 1000 Chastain Road in Kennesaw, Georgia, approximately 20 to 30 minutes northwest of downtown Atlanta. The campus is easily accessible from Interstate 75, with clear signage and on-campus maps for visitors. It is surrounded by established neighborhoods and suburban centers in Cobb County, offering a range of housing and commuting options. Reliable public transit, rideshare zones, and nearby amenities make the location convenient for students, faculty, and visitors alike.